I don’t know what else to say to comfort her.
“It’s been a rough couple of weeks. I haven’t even told you that we’re back together.”
My eyebrow shoots into my hairline. They’ve been on and off more than I care to remember.
“I’ll fill you in on the details on the ride to the hospital.”
Once we’re settled in the backseat of a town car, Willow hands me an envelope.
“This is everything I have. We’ve been looking for a way to save him, but so far every avenue we’ve followed has led us right into a brick wall.”
I take the documents out and page through them. Only one page is of any use to me. I examine it.
“This is dated almost nine months ago. Was this the first blood work done on him?”
“I think so.”
“I’m a little confused,” I murmur. “50µg/dL is treatable.”
“The fragments are causing complications. They’ve been treating him for lead poisoning but…” she clears her throat to compose herself. “The fragments have embedded themselves in his heart.”
I take her hand and squeeze it. The friend in me wants to hold her and assure her that everything will be fine. The doctor in me knows better.
“Do you know where in the heart?”
“No.” For a second her eyes light up with hope. “I’ve spoken to Dr. Barnard. He knows you’re coming. He agreed to let you look at Marcus. Leigh…” she takes a deep breath.
I already know what she’s going to say, so I make it easier for her.
“He’s agreeing because there’s nothing he can do for Marcus. I understand, Willow.”
“I love him,” she whimpers, and it breaks my heart to see how much she’s hurting. “Please…”
I’ve gotten good at controlling my emotions during my residency, but right now it’s really hard to keep a calm appearance.
“I’ll do my best,” I whisper.
Chapter 7
JAXSON
(Present Day…)
Irony, it’s when life fucks you over. Watching your best friend die a little every day, and not being able to do anything about it, is hell.
I’ve tried everything to find a way to save him. If only I had more time.
Movement catches my eye and thinking that it’s Carter, I glance at the entrance to the waiting room.
The blow of shock is so intense, I can’t breathe.
Doc.
She’s here.
Our eyes meet briefly, and it’s another blow to my gut. It doesn’t look like she recognizes me.
I’ve almost forgotten how beautiful she is.